Dr Heaney secures secondment to World Anti-doping Agency (WADA)-accredited lab

Dr Liam Heaney, Loughborough’s expert in anti-doping research and former Chemistry PhD student, has secured a secondment to the German Sport University Cologne as the two universities strengthen ties.

The Lecturer in Bioanalytical Science will travel to the World Anti-doping Agency (WADA)-accredited laboratory in Cologne after being awarded a Research Scholarship from DAAD (Deutscher Akademischer Austauschdienst / German Academic Exchange Service).

During his month-long stay in Germany, Dr Heaney, who studied a PhD in Bioanalytical Chemistry within the department, will work under the supervision of the Institute’s lead scientist and Chair, Professor Mario Thevis to learn new research techniques and approaches at the forefront of the topic area.

“I am thrilled to be afforded the opportunity to build my skills and experience through this research placement alongside a world-leading anti-doping scientist in Prof Thevis,” he explained.

“Working within the WADA-accredited lab will provide me with invaluable exposure to both cutting-edge research techniques, but also an insight into the daily running of a commercial anti-doping laboratory.

“As the world’s number one university for sports-related subjects, it is important that we are continually able to expand our capabilities into new areas to strengthen our foothold within the field.

“One area which we have identified with a huge potential for growth is that of anti-doping laboratory science, with the techniques applied by my research team ideal for these applications.”

Prof Mario Thevis added:

“I am delighted to be welcoming Liam to the WADA-accredited laboratory at the German Sport University Cologne.

“This research fellowship provides an excellent opportunity for Liam to learn new skills working within our team of researchers and academics, as well as bringing his own knowledge to complement our research and to build a collaborative and sustainable research partnership between our two institutions.”

The German Sport University Cologne is dedicated exclusively to the furthering and dissemination of knowledge related to sport and exercise science, making it the only German university with a single-themed approach within the sports field.

For more information on The German Sport University Cologne, visit its website here.